Rajya Sabha MP Kapil Sibal has expressed strong disapproval regarding the government’s decision to revoke Jantar Mantar’s status as a designated protest site. He stated that this action signifies a troubling trend where the act of protesting has been increasingly viewed as a “crime” in India. Sibal emphasised that the right to protest is a fundamental right enshrined in the Constitution, and he remains hopeful that the Supreme Court will uphold this right.

During an online press conference, Sibal articulated his concerns about the growing disillusionment among citizens towards the government, attributing this sentiment to high unemployment rates, economic challenges, and diminished public investment. He asserted that the government should step down for the benefit of the nation.

He highlighted the absurdity of relocating protests to Ramlila Maidan, particularly during the ongoing Dussehra festivities, which complicate the ability to hold demonstrations there. Sibal questioned the rationale behind the cancellation of Jantar Mantar as a protest venue, arguing that it was a well-established site for public expression.

Allegations of Violence and Restrictions

Sibal further alleged that violence at previous protests in Jantar Mantar was instigated by external elements. He claimed that a truck filled with stones was brought to the site, and that unidentified individuals, including plain-clothes police, were involved in acts of violence against protesters.

He described instances where demonstrators were subjected to lathi charges and women faced assaults. In addition, Sibal pointed out that transport services were reportedly restricted during protests, including the suspension of Metro services and limitations on train access to Delhi. He argued that such actions are indicative of a broader attempt to suppress dissent.

Drawing comparisons with international examples, Sibal noted that cities like New York, London, and Paris have designated protest areas near significant government institutions. He questioned why India should not follow suit, suggesting that the government promotes democratic values abroad while restricting freedom of speech domestically.

Future of Protests and Electoral Concerns

Sibal warned that the current situation could lead to significant unrest, stating that the “pressure cooker is going to burst” due to the government’s actions. He reiterated that the right to protest is subject to reasonable restrictions, yet maintained that past demonstrations at Jantar Mantar had been peaceful and that an upcoming event, ‘Jantar Mantar 2.0’, planned for October 10, would also remain non-violent.

He referenced a recent procession led by Rahul Gandhi and members of the INDIA bloc towards the Supreme Court, which occurred without incident, questioning why young protesters are treated differently. Sibal argued that there is no threat to the state from these demonstrations, but rather a threat to the government’s credibility.

In his remarks to Press Trust of India, Sibal expressed confidence that the Supreme Court would safeguard the constitutional right to protest. He also raised concerns about alleged manipulation of the voters’ list for the upcoming 2024 elections, attributing this to centralised electoral systems. Sibal scrutinised the government’s support for Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, suggesting that any changes in his position would reveal the government’s influence over electoral processes.

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